“Forget it, man!” says Harbhajan Singh when Sehwag brings up the “slapgate” incident with Sreesanth.
The 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL) started last week, and so far everything has gone well. But the money-making league has been involved in a number of controversies in the past, and the fight between Harbhajan Singh and S. Sreesanth in the tournament’s first year, 2008, is still one of the most controversial events in its history.
Harbhajan was playing for Mumbai Indians at the time, and Sreesanth was playing for Kings XI Punjab, which is now called Punjab Kings. The pacer, Sreesanth, was then seen crying on the pitch, and it was said that Harbhajan had hit him.
Both players have put the fight behind them and were recently seen on the same stage to celebrate the 12th anniversary of India’s historic win in the World Cup. Star Sports made a special episode with Harbhajan, Sreesanth, Yusuf Pathan, and Virender Sehwag. You can watch it on their YouTube channel.
In the episode, Sreesanth talks about how close he is with Harbhajan and says that he always gives the spinner a hug before a game. He even said that the hugs made him perform better.
Sehwag was quick to add his thoughts. He cut Sreesanth off and asked if the hugs were because of the “Slapgate” scandal, which made both Harbhajan and the pacer feel uncomfortable.
Sreesanth: “I want to tell you that before a Test match or any other match, I always gave Bhajji pa a hug” (Harbhajan Singh). My work used to always be better.”
Sehwag: “When did this hugging thing become popular? Most likely after what happened in Mohali.”
Harbhajan then quickly added: “Bhul jao yaar” (Forget it man).
Sreesanth also said that it all started in 2006. After that, he gave Harbhajan a handshake, and Harbhajan said, “Kuch toh log kahenge” (People always say something).
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